The dissemination and influence of Willem M. Dudok's work in the climate of modernism in architecture in Australia, 1930-1955

Abstract

The thesis studies the role of the European modem architect, the Dutchman Willem Marinus Dudok, in the dissemination of certain aspects of the concepts of architectural modernism in Australia from 1930 to the mid-1950s, and examines the manner in which his works and ideas were actually transferred. The thesis establishes the significance of Dudok's role in the Australian architectural context. An introductory discussion of European architectural modernism is presented so that Dudok's position can be understood in relation to it. This is followed by an examination of Dudok's professional life and architectural works. His buildings are analysed according to general principles and specific characteristics, all of which are illustrated by examples. Dudok's standing as an important modem architect is supported by a study of his relationship to European modern architecture, including prior and contemporary Dutch architecture. The connections between Dudok and Frank Lloyd Wright and their respective architectures are briefly investigated. Australian modernism is discussed in broad terms to establish the cultural context within which modem architecture evolved in that country. The development of modem architecture is described by examining the architectural debate conducted at the time of its emergence, and by an analysis of modern buildings. Architects, from both the public and private sectors, whose buildings demonstrate an understanding of the principles and Ill practice of modern architecture are identified and their work is examined for any evidence of Dudok's intluence. The thesis also examines the vehicles through which such Australian architects became aware of Dudok's architecture and demonstrates that these were many and diverse. Three significant means are identified: first, photographs of Dudok's architecture and articles about it in Australian and overseas professional and popular journals; second, the experiences of those Australian architects who travelled to the Netherlands specifically to look at Dudok's architecture; third, the awareness of his work that existed among Australian architects working in the United Kingdom. Of particular note was the role of the Architectural Association in London in informing Australian architects about Dudok. This thesis suggests that many modem buildings designed and built in Australia during the period 1930 to the mid-1950s displayed characteristics in their built form that can be directly sourced to Dudok's architecture. It concludes that Dudok had a widespread influence on modern buildings in Australia during the 1930s and 1940s, and his intluence remains evident in occasional buildings designed during the early 1950s.